Car Parts: Repair or Replace
Here in the UK, we’re all feeling the pinch. So when a car problem crops up, you might wonder whether repair or replacement of the faulty component is the most cost-effective route. But you also have a responsibility to pick an option that protects the safety of yourself and other road users.
In this article, we’ll help you get that balance right by guiding you through seven key car components.
Tyres
From punctures to bulges, the severity and location of the tyre damage will sway whether tyre repair or tyre replacement is the right course of action.
This decision should only be made by a professional. That’s why you always need to get the opinion of an expert. We’ll assess your damaged tyre and determine the safest and most cost-effective solution.
Windscreen
It’s far cheaper to repair a windscreen than to replace the whole thing. Technology has come a long way over the years. Now, windscreen repairs are a simple process whereby resin is injected into the chip and polished over.
However, this is only doable on coin-sized chips, or cracks that are only a couple of inches long. Anything larger than around 25mm will need a whole windscreen replacement. You should also be aware that you will fail an MOT if windscreen chips are bigger than 10mm and in a driver’s line of sight or if they are bigger than 40mm and located anywhere on the windscreen.
Wing mirrors
The wing mirrors are vital for driver, passenger and public safety, and to drive without two working wing mirrors is illegal. The DVSA states that each wing mirror must be fixed to a vehicle in a way that it will be steady while driving under ordinary conditions.
There are many ways wing mirrors can become damaged. This makes it difficult to recommend whether wing mirror repair or wing mirror replacement is required as it depends on your particular case.
Whether your wing mirror is cracked, dented or ripped off completely, you will need the assistance of an expert to assess the extent of the damage and to give advice.
Enhaust
Faulty exhausts can be noisy, decrease fuel efficiency and damage vehicle performance. The main causes of damage are corrosion or repeated bumping over objects. If the damage or corrosion is severe, your best option is exhaust replacement as your exhaust will be beyond saving at that point.
However, if damage is minor or if it has become detached, quite often a repair can be a good option.
Alternator
An alternator gives your vehicle’s electrical components the juice they need to run. It can therefore spell bad news if they are damaged in some way.
If your alternator is very old or worn, it will require multiple repairs in the future which can end up costing more than a brand new one.
So if your alternator has been going a long while, it may be more cost-effective to pursue alternator replacement than alternator repair.
Wipers
As standard practice, wiper blades should be replaced every six – twelve months to ensure high performance. The initial quality and weather conditions they are exposed to will ultimately influence their longevity. If you notice juddering or streaking it’s time to replace them.
However, if the problem is in the wiper motor rather than the blade, this is a more complex task that requires the advice of a professional. An expert will diagnose the issue and suggest a wiper repair or wiper replacement.
Clutch
Are you noticing clutch control issues such as slipping, grinding or shuddering? It’s not a problem to ignore as delaying a fix can be dangerous.
A professional will need to assess a clutch problem immediately. Typically clutch repair means replacing the afflicted part of the clutch rather than fixing it.
The technicians will diagnose and suggest a solution that could involve adjustment, replacement of clutch components, or potentially a whole clutch replacement.
Are you looking for affordable repair and replacement of your car parts? Here at Mr Tyre, we’re the leading chain of autocentres for Central England, providing an all-in-one service that includes supply, fitting and repair of key vehicle components – including batteries, brakes, tyre punctures & more. If you’ve run into a problem, just give us a call and we’ll be here to help.
